The challenge of data in analysis for infrastructure projects

Computational mechanics is both an area of active research and a powerful tool for practitioners. Most analysis in infrastructure is for projects where the resources available for the analysis are limited. The analysts must overcome challenges to complete projects on time and on budget. One of the greatest sources of challenges for analysts is the data used in projects but this source is not often discussed explicitly. There are three key challenges relevant to the data: incompleteness, uncertainty and appropriateness. A case study of a subsea power cable for an offshore wind farm demonstrates how these challenges arise in practice. A look to the future shows that there is much to do, but also much to expect.